The name may sound funny but these Honduran masa harina cakes are nothing short of delicious.
Pupusas are thick masa harina "cakes" stuffed with cheese or meat. They are very popular in El Salvador, but Guatemala and Honduras have their versions as well. This recipe is a take-off of the Honduras version made with quesillo, a light Honduran cheese. However, since it may be impossible to get Honduran quesillo anywhere other than its home country, any light cheese can be substituted.
Masa harina is different from corn flour in that it is made with ground homily which has been said to be more nutritious than regular corn flour.
Chismol (pronounced chi-mol), Honduras' answer to salsa, or pico de gallo, is a wonderful compliment to the pupusas, along with meats and fish. It consists of the same ingredients as your typical salsa, but the onions, peppers and tomatoes remain cubed, instead of processed.
It is normally made with "espacias," a spice assortment from Honduras. It may be possible to buy this at a Latin grocery store, but I've found that substituting it with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder and fresh ground pepper works as well.
Hungry yet? Make these Central American delights at home without leaving your kitchen.
Buen Provecho!
